Dubai, UAE: Hardware+Tools Middle East, the region’s foremost trade and networking exhibition for hardware, tools, materials and machinery, got under way today, (Tuesday, June 3rd), at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Opened by H.E. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the three-day event features 224 exhibitors with eyes firmly focused on a regional construction that is well and truly on the rebound.

As a region studded with fast-growing economies undertaking some head-turning infrastructure and development projects, as well as making huge strides in the creation of commercial and civilian facilities, the Middle East is figuring increasingly on the radars of leading international tools, machinery and material manufacturers.

With the GCC construction industry currently estimated to have projects worth US$1.3 trillion in progress, Hardware+Tools Middle East’s position as the premier trade and business development event for hardware, tools, materials and machinery, gains even more significance.*

“The Middle East construction sector is growing again as the region prepares to host major international events in the near future,” said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt, the organiser of Hardware+Tools Middle East.

“In response, more tools and machinery manufacturers are looking with interest at regional markets. As the preferred trade platform serving the wider region, Hardware+Tools Middle East will continue to play a significant role in channelling the flow of international players into the markets of the region.”

Hardware+Tools Middle East 2014 features a wide range of exhibitors from within the Middle East and further afield from Europe, and Asia, who will be out in strength to network and engage with regional trade buyers. The exhibition features country pavilions from China, Taiwan, Thailand and India.

European heavyweights such as Michelin, Goodyear and Bosch are also in the limelight with their latest industrial and construction product lines attracting considerable trade visitor interest.

With a range of hot and cold water high pressure washers, LED lights, electric reels, tool kits, and torque wrenches, Arwani Trading’s booth presented a busy scene. Hani Arwani, Sales Manager of Arwani Trading said: “We are pleased with the early response received so far at Hardware+Tools MIddle East and look forward to creating a favourable impact at this year’s show.“

Central Motors and Equipment were showcasing Bosch’s range of power tools. “We represent one of the biggest manufacturers of power tools in the world,“ said Balasubramaniam Selvam, Sales Supervisor of Central Motors and Equipment. “Our range covers a broad spectrum of professional, DIY and hobby power tools.“

Hardware+Tools Middle East is open from 10am to 7pm daily. For more information, go to www.hardwaretoolsme.com.